Adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization

ABSTRACT

An adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization comprising, in general, a one or more axis adjustable stringer to be inserted into the finger rings or ring handles of the surgical instruments to sequentially group the surgical instruments, a surgical instrument tray and lid configured with a pattern of sterilization apertures, the lid having two or more recessed valleys configured to receive the stringer of ringed surgical instruments and releasably hold the surgical instrument therein.

PRIORITY CLAIM

To the full extent permitted by law, the present United States Non-provisional Patent Application, is a Continuation-in-Part of, and hereby claims priority to and the full benefit of United States Non-provisional Application entitled “Surgical Instrument Tray System and Method of Sterilization,” having assigned Ser. No. 13/284,099, filed on Oct. 28, 2011, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure generally relates to surgical instrument receptacle, organizational system and, more specifically, is related to a stringer and tray system for retaining a collection of surgical instruments for sterilization, transport and storage.

BACKGROUND

Present day surgical procedures regularly use sets of pre-selected surgical instruments for a specified surgical procedure, such as clamps, hemostat, forceps, scissors, retractors, and the like. These instruments are regularly grouped together to form a set. The set of surgical instruments is stored in a sterilized condition until required for surgery. Prior to sterilization the set of surgical instruments is subject to a time consuming multi-step sorting, identifying, grouping, cleaning and sterilization process. The set of surgical instruments is collected post operation, co-mingled in a wire mesh basket or holed tray for transport to the central sterile processing area. Next, the basket or tray of surgical instruments is placed in a wash sink to brush and manually wash the surgical instruments to remove any foreign debris, such as tissue or dried body fluid. Next, the basket or tray of surgical instruments is transported to and run through an automated washer/decontaminator. Next, the basket or tray of surgical instruments is transported to and emptied out on a sorting table where a technician inspects, counts and sorts each surgical instrument into groupings of instruments for a specified surgical procedure. Next, pivoting or hinged scissor-like surgical instruments are commonly sequentially grouped using a fixed stringer, bar or retaining rod positioned through both of the finger rings or ring handles, and the set is laid or positioned in a basket or tray. Next, the basket or tray of surgical instruments is placed in a sealed container and sealed before entering the sterilization machine. Next, the wrapped or containerized basket or tray of surgical instruments is placed in an industrial sterilization machine/autoclave for sterilization of the surgical instruments. Next, the sealed sterilization container of surgical instruments is stored until transported to an operating area for use as required. When needed the sterilized surgical instruments are transported to the operating room where the surgical instruments are removed from the basket or tray and arranged on a stand or instrument roll in a configuration that enables efficient transfer to a surgeon.

Much time is utilized during the process of cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping procedure for the assembly and sterilization of surgical instruments. In addition, the onset of infectious diseases has dramatically increased the biohazard risk for medical personnel and central sterile personnel handling post operation cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments due to potential contact with sharp surgical instruments, such as needles. Such contact may result in loss of work for recovery, testing for contamination, and/or a workers compensation claim.

Furthermore, surgical instruments are often damaged when transported, stacked one on the other as well as when the surgical instruments are emptied out on a sorting table for a technician to inspect, count, and sort. Such handling may scratch, bend and may even break the surgical instruments resulting in increased cost to replace such instruments, which are often delicate and expensive. Such damage to the surgical instruments reduces the life expectancy of the surgical instruments resulting in increased medical costs to replace the surgical instruments. Moreover, if such damaged surgical instruments are accidentally returned to the operating room, such surgical procedures may be delayed or cancelled due to non-functioning surgical instruments causing lost revenue for the surgery center and an upset surgical team and patients in queue.

Still further, the environmental impact of the above multi-step process of pre-washing, automated washer/decontaminator, and running the surgical instruments through industrial sterilization machine/autoclave requires large quantities of water, sterilization chemicals and energy.

Yet still further, counting the surgical instruments before and after surgical procedures is particularly important for ensuring that no instruments are left in the patient after the operation procedure has been completed.

Yet still further, one problem with fixed or hinged stringers, bars or retaining rods is that the stringer is not adjustable to string, group or accommodate a variety of surgical instruments nor do such fixed stringers enable adjustment to hold or maintain a variety of surgical instruments in an open position ready for sorting, identifying, grouping, cleaning and sterilization.

Therefore, it is readily apparent that there is a recognizable unmet need for an adjustable surgical instrument stringer and tray system and method of sterilization that reduces the time spent cleaning, sorting, counting, identifying and grouping surgical instrument, extends the life expectancy of the surgical instruments, provides an adjustable stringer, and decreases the contamination potential of the surgical instruments by maintaining the surgical instruments in a side-by-side open configuration during cleaning and sterilization.

SUMMARY

Briefly described, in an example embodiment, the present apparatus and method overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and meets the recognized need for an adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization comprising, in general, a one or more axis adjustable stringer to be inserted into the finger rings or ring handles of the surgical instruments to sequentially group the surgical instruments, a surgical instrument tray and lid configured with a pattern of sterilization apertures, the lid having two or more recessed valleys configured to receive the stringer of ringed surgical instruments and releasably hold the surgical instrument therein and, thus such apparatus, functions to removeably secure the surgical instrument in a group for identification, cleaning, sterilization, and storage prior to surgery.

According to its major aspects and broadly stated, the present system meets the recognized need for An adjustable stringer configured to string the ring handles of one or more surgical instruments including two or more rod sections, each rod section configured with at least one angle section therein, and wherein each rod section is configured to be inserted in one ring handle of the one or more surgical instruments, and two or more slidable coupler sections, each slidable coupler section configured to extend and retract two of said two or more rod sections.

In a further exemplary embodiment of a surgical instrument support tray configured to support a plurality of ring handled surgical instruments including a surface configured to support the plurality of surgical instruments, the surface further includes two or more valleys formed in parallel in said surface and configured to receive the ring handled surgical instruments, and a stringer having at least two rod sections, each rod section configured to be inserted in one ring handle of the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments.

In a further exemplary embodiment of a method of organizing surgical instruments having ring handles comprising the steps of providing a stringer having two or more rod sections, each rod section configured with at least one angle section therein and two or more slidable coupler sections, each slidable coupler section configured to extend and retract two of the two or more rod sections, inserting each rod section in one ring handle of the one or more surgical instruments to group the one or more surgical instruments, providing a surface configured to support the plurality of surgical instruments, the surface further comprises two or more valleys formed in parallel in the surface and configured to receive the ring handled surgical instruments, adjusting the two or more slidable coupler sections of said stringer to fit the two or more valleys formed in parallel in the surface, and positioning said stringer of the ring handled surgical instruments in two of the two or more valleys formed in parallel in the surface to releasably retain the ring handles of the surgical instruments evenly spaced in an open jaw position.

Accordingly, a feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce the time required to identify, clean, sort, count, and group surgical instrument between surgeries.

Another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to organize, protect and enable thorough cleaning and sterilization of surgical instruments.

Still another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to accommodate a variety of surgical instruments, such as size, shape, angle of bend, tip type, instruments purpose and the like all in one support tray system.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to rapidly identify the appropriate instrument in the tray during sorting, counting, and grouping of the surgical instrument post-surgery, during pre-wash, pressure washing, sorting, grouping, sterilization or storage for pre-surgical use.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to rapidly identify and select the appropriate surgical instrument during surgery without confusion and lapse of time and to also identify all surgical instruments post-surgery.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce inefficiency and waste in turning around sterile surgical instruments as set forth in the Affordable Care Act.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to decrease the loss of surgical instruments, decrease the time to count the surgical instruments before and after surgical procedures, and decrease assembly time of surgical instrument sets.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce surgical instrument inventory or reduce the need for additional capital expenditures due to increased surgical volume as a result of more efficient processing time.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization an adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to enable a uniform cleaning process for reducing the potential for surgical site infection.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce the occurrences of malfunctions, delays or cancellations during the surgical procedure due to improperly inspected or cleaned surgical instruments.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce the capital budget for repairs associated with care and handling of surgical instruments.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to integrate the surgical instrument support tray as the tray top of box like container.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce the number of sharps being sent to central sterile and the reduction of accidents associated with needle/sharps injuries.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to inventory surgical blades and needles after being disengaged therefrom.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to color coordinate a group of trays within a surgical service for easy identification for specific surgical specialties.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce surgical instrument damage when transporting, stacking, sorting, inspecting, counting, and/or when empting out on a sorting table for a technician to inspect, count, and sort. Such handling may scratch, bend and may even break the surgical instruments resulting in increased cost to replace such instruments, which are often delicate and expensive. Such damage to the surgical instruments reduces the life expectancy of the surgical instruments resulting in increased medical costs to replace the surgical instruments.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to sort, identify, group, clean, and sterilize and to further prevent damaged or improperly cleaned surgical instruments from accidentally being returned to the operating room, where such surgical procedures may be delayed or cancelled due to non-functioning surgical instruments and further causing lost revenue for the surgery center.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to reduce the environmental impact of the multi-step process of pre-washing, automated washer/decontaminator, and running the surgical instruments through industrial sterilization machine/autoclave to reduce the requirements for large quantities of water, sterilization chemicals and energy.

Yet another feature of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization is its ability to provide an adjustable stringer to group or accommodate a variety of surgical instruments and provide adjustment to hold or maintain a variety of surgical instruments in an open position ready for sorting, identifying, grouping, cleaning and sterilization.

These and other features of the adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization will become more apparent to one skilled in the art from the following Brief Description of the Drawings, Detailed Drawings, Detailed Description and Claims when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present adjustable surgical instrument stringer, tray system, and method of sterilization will be better understood by reading the Detailed Description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference to numerals denote similar structures and refer to like elements throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example adjustable stringer;

FIG. 2 is a top view, side view and bottom view of the adjustable stringer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2.1 is a top view of the stringer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2.2 is a side view of the stringer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2.3 is an end view of the stringer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the adjustable stringer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4.1 is top views of an example surgical instrument for storage in the surgical instrument support tray system shown herein;

FIG. 4.2 is perspective view of a plurality of surgical instruments of FIG. 4.1 shown strung together;

FIG. 5.1 is perspective view of an example embodiment box like tray bottom and lid surgical instrument support tray system with exemplary adjustable stringer position thereon;

FIG. 5.2 is an exploded perspective view of an example embodiment box like tray bottom and lid surgical instrument support tray system with exemplary adjustable stringer;

FIG. 5.2.1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment box like tray bottom;

FIG. 5.2.2 is a perspective view of an example embodiment box lid surgical instrument support with exemplary adjustable stringer;

FIG. 5.3 is a top and cross sectional view of an example embodiment box lid and surgical instrument support system;

FIG. 5.3.1 is a top view of an example embodiment box lid and surgical instrument support system;

FIG. 5.3.2 is a cross sectional view of an example embodiment box lid and surgical instrument support system;

FIG. 5.3.3 is a cross sectional view of an example embodiment box lid and surgical instrument support system;

FIG. 5.4.1 is a top and cross sectional view of an example embodiment box like tray bottom and internal small box support system;

FIG. 5.4.2 is a top and cross sectional view of an example embodiment box like tray bottom and internal small box support system;

FIG. 6.1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a surgical instrument support tray system with exemplary adjustable stringers shown in two positions affixed to the top or lid of the surgical instrument support tray system;

FIG. 6.2 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a surgical instrument support tray system with a plurality of surgical instrument sets held by exemplary adjustable stringers to the top of the surgical instrument support tray system;

FIG. 7.1 is an exploded perspective view of the attachment device of FIG. 5.2.2;

FIG. 7.2 is a perspective view of an alternate exemplary attachment device of FIG. 7.1;

FIG. 7.2.1 is a perspective view of an alternate exemplary attachment device of FIG. 7.1;

FIG. 7.2.2 is a perspective view of an alternate exemplary attachment device of FIG. 7.2.1;

FIG. 7.2.3 is a side view of an alternate exemplary attachment device of FIG. 7.2.1; and

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method of sorting, identifying, grouping, counting, cleaning, pressure washing, sterilizing, and storing prior to surgical use.

It is to be noted that the drawings presented are intended solely for the purpose of illustration and that they are, therefore, neither desired nor intended to limit the disclosure to any or all of the exact details of construction shown, except insofar as they may be deemed essential to the claimed invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In describing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure as illustrated in FIGS. 1-8 specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. The present disclosure, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish similar functions. Embodiments of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed to be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples, and are merely examples among other possible examples.

Referring now to FIG. 1 there is illustrated a perspective view of an exemplary bar or retaining rod, such as stringer 100. Preferably, stringer 100 includes one or more bars, tubes, conduits or the like, such as rod 101A/B or 111A/B, one or more bends, corners, angles, right angle, acute angle, curves, or turns, such as angle sections 104A/B or 114A/B, and one or more expand and contract sections, slidable sections, connector, telescope, or coupler, such as slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D. It is contemplated herein that other configurations of slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such as other coupler configurations, multi segment coupler, telescopic slidable coupler sections or the like to accommodate larger surgical instruments I are included herein. It is further contemplated herein that rod 101A/B and/or 111A/B and angle sections 104A/B or 114A/B may be formed as a plurality of pieces or parts for assembly as a whole stringer 100 or as one or more single elements for assembly as a whole stringer 100. Stringer 100 is preferably configured as an adjustable rectangular configuration with adjustments in one or more axis, such as x axis X and y axis Y via slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D; however, other configurations, such as square, and other adjustments or adjustment mechanisms in and between axis are contemplated herein.

Referring now to FIG. 2 there is illustrated a top view, side view and bottom view of stringer 100. FIG. 2.1 further illustrates the rectangular configuration of rods 101A/B and 111A/B, angle sections 104A/B and 114A/B, and slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D. FIG. 2.2 further illustrates the linear adjustment capability in the y axis Y between rods 101A and 111A via slidable coupler section 130C configured to enable extension and retraction of rod 101A in and out therein of slidable coupler section 130C. It is contemplated herein that rod 111A may be configured to enable extension and retraction in and out therein of slidable coupler section 130C. FIG. 2.3 further illustrates the linear adjustment capability in the x axis X between rods 101A and 101B via slidable coupler section 130A configured to enable extension and retraction of rods 101A and 101B in and out therein of slidable coupler section 130A. It is contemplated herein that slidable coupler section 130B/D likewise may be configured to enable extension and retraction in and out therein of rods 101B/111A and 111B/111B, respectively.

Stringer 100 is preferably formed of a suitable surgical material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, metal, metal alloys, shape memory alloys, carbon fibers, ceramic or the like, capable of providing structure whether as a solid or hollow stringer 100. Preferably, the material includes other suitable characteristics, such as durability, rigidity, stain-resistance, bacteria-resistant, light weight, chemical inertness, oxidation resistance, ease of workability, or other beneficial characteristic understood by one skilled in the art. Moreover, stringer 100 is preferably configured having a cross-sectional circular diameter; however, other configurations, such as square or the like, are contemplated herein. Stringer 100 is preferably solid for the purpose of preventing any interior surface capable of colonizing bacteria, viruses or other infectious diseases and difficult for sterilization chemicals to reach; however, a hollow interior is contemplated herein if such interior is sealed or alternatively if a plurality of holes or apertures are present to enable sterilization of the interior surface of stringer 100.

Referring now to FIG. 3 there is illustrated an exploded view of rod 101A, rod 101B, rod 111A, rod 111B, and slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100. Preferably rod 101A includes first rod section 102A which further includes first rod end 102.1A and second rod end 102.3A. First rod end 102.1A preferably includes a solid end, rounded end, pointed end, or cover, such as rod end cap 102.2A. Second rod end 102.3A preferably transitions to or is coupled to angle section 104A, which further transitions to or is coupled to second rod section 106A. Preferably angle section 104A is configured as a ninety-degree turn positioning first rod section 102A perpendicular to second rod section 106A. Second rod section 106A preferably includes first rod end 106.1A and second rod end 106.4A. Preferably first rod end 106.1A preferably includes a solid end or cover, such as rod end cap 106.3A. Furthermore, first rod end 106.1A preferably further includes a hole or threaded hole, such as rod aperture 106.2A. It is contemplated herein that rod 101A may be formed of one continuous piece and bent to form angle section 104A.

Preferably rod 101B includes first rod section 102B which further includes first rod end 102.1B and second rod end 102.3B. First rod end 102.1B preferably includes a solid end, rounded end, pointed end, or cover, such as rod end cap 102.2B. Second rod end 102.3B preferably transitions to or is coupled to angle section 104B, which further transitions to or is coupled to second rod section 106B. Preferably angle section 104B is configured as a ninety degree turn positioning first rod section 102B perpendicular to second rod section 106B. Second rod section 106B preferably includes first rod end 106.1B and second rod end 106.4B. Preferably first rod end 106.1B preferably includes a solid end or cover, such as rod end cap 106.3B. Furthermore, first rod end 106.1B preferably further includes a hole or threaded hole, such as rod aperture 106.2B. It is contemplated herein that rod 101B may be formed of one continuous piece and bent to form angle section 104B.

Preferably rod 111A includes first rod section 112A which further includes first rod end 112.1A and second rod end 112.2A. Second rod end 112.2A preferably transitions to or is coupled to angle section 114A, which further transitions to or is coupled to second rod section 116A. Preferably angle section 114A is configured as a ninety degree turn positioning first rod section 112A perpendicular to second rod section 116A. Second rod section 116A preferably includes first rod end 116.1A and second rod end 116.4A. Preferably first rod end 116.1A preferably includes a solid end or cover, such as rod end cap 116.3A. Furthermore, first rod end 116.1A preferably further includes a hole or threaded hole, such as rod aperture 116.2A. It is contemplated herein that rod 111A may be formed of one continuous piece and bent to form angle section 114A.

Preferably rod 111B includes first rod section 112B which further includes first rod end 112.1B and second rod end 112.2B. Second rod end 112.2B preferably transitions to or is coupled to angle section 114B, which further transitions to or is coupled to second rod section 116B. Preferably angle section 114B is configured as a ninety degree turn positioning first rod section 112B perpendicular to second rod section 116B. Second rod section 116B preferably includes first rod end 116.1B and second rod end 116.4B. Preferably first rod end 116.1B preferably includes a solid end or cover, such as rod end cap 116.3B. Furthermore, first rod end 116.1B preferably further includes a hole or threaded hole, such as rod aperture 116.2B. It is contemplated herein that rod 111B may be formed of one continuous piece and bent to form angle section 114B.

Stringer 100 further includes two or more slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D for extension and retraction of rods 101A/B, 111A/B, 101A/111A, 101B/111B, 116A/B, 106A/B respectively. Preferably, slidable coupler section 130A is positioned between rod 101A/106A and rod 101B/106B and includes a hollow tube or conduit member, such as tubular member 136A. Tubular member 136A preferably includes first tube end 132A and second tube end 134A. Preferably first tube end 132A and second tube end 134A includes open ends, such as first tube aperture 139.1A and second tube aperture 139.2A. Moreover, slidable coupler sections 130A includes a groove, slot, or aperture, such as channel 137A configured to enable pins, screws, rivets, or fasteners, such as set screws 138.1A and 138.2A to slide therein. For assembly, first rod end 106.1A of second rod section 106A is preferably inserted in second tube aperture 139.2A of first tube end 132A of tubular member 136A, wherein set screw 138.1A is preferably fastened therein aperture 106.2A. Preferably set screw 138.1A is configured to enable second rod section 106A to travel, adjust, extend, or retract along x axis X within the boundary of channel 137A. Moreover, first rod end 106.1B of second rod section 106B is preferably inserted in first tube aperture 139.1A of second tube end 134A of tubular member 136A, wherein set screw 138.2A is preferably fastened therein aperture 106.2B. Preferably set screw 138.2A is configured to enable second rod section 106B to travel, adjust, extend, or retract along x axis X within the boundary of channel 137A. Such linear motion between second rod section 106A, tubular member 136A, and second rod section 106B enables x axis X parallel adjustment, positioning, or spacing of rod 101A and rod 101B.

Preferably, slidable coupler section 130B is positioned between rod 111A and rod 111B and includes a hollow tube or conduit member, such as tubular member 136B. Tubular member 136B preferably includes first tube end 132B and second tube end 134B. Preferably first tube end 132B and second tube end 134B includes open ends, such as first tube end 139.1B and second tube end 139.2B. Moreover, slidable coupler section 130A includes a groove, slot, or aperture, such as channel 137B configured to enable pins, screws, rivets, or fasteners, such as set screws 138.1A and 138.2A to slide therein. For assembly, first rod end 116.1A of second rod section 116A is preferably inserted in second tube aperture 139.1B of first tube end 132B of tubular member 136B, wherein set screw 138.1B is preferably fastened therein aperture 116.2A. Preferably set screw 138.1B is configured to enable second rod section 116A to travel, adjust, extend, or retract along x axis X within the boundary of channel 137B. Moreover, first rod end 116.1B of second rod section 116B is preferably inserted in first tube aperture 139.2B of second tube end 134B of tubular member 136B, wherein set screw 138.2B is preferably fastened therein aperture 116.2B. Preferably set screw 138.2B is configured to enable second rod section 116B to travel, adjust, extend, or retract along x axis X within the boundary of channel 137B. Such linear motion between second rod section 116A, tubular member 136B, and second rod section 116B enables x axis X parallel adjustment, positioning, or spacing of rod 111A and rod 111B.

Together motion between second rod section 106A, tubular member 136A, and second rod section 106B and motion between second rod section 116A, tubular member 136B, and second rod section 116B enables x axis X parallel adjustment, positioning, or spacing of adjoining rods, such as rod 101A and rod 111A and rod 101B and rod 111B.

Preferably slidable coupler section 130C is positioned between rod 101A and rod 111A and includes a hollow tube or conduit member, such as tubular member 120A. Tubular member 120A preferably includes first tube end 122A and second tube end 124A. Preferably first tube end 122A and second tube end 124A includes an open end and longitudinally extending interior passageway therein, such as first tube aperture 122.1A and second tube aperture 124.1A. For assembly, first rod end 112.1A of first rod section 112A is preferably inserted in second tube aperture 124.1A of second tube end 124A of tubular member 120A, wherein first rod end 112.1A may be affixed to second tube end 124A of tubular member 120A. It is contemplated herein that first rod end 112.1A may be affixed to second tube end 124A of tubular member 120A utilizing a weld, adhesive, compression fit or the like. It is further contemplated herein that first tube aperture 122.1A and tubular member 120A may be formed by mechanically widening or flaring first tube aperture 122.1A and tubular member 120A of hollow rod 111A. Moreover, first rod end 102.1A of first rod section 102A is preferably inserted in first tube aperture 122.1A of first tube end 122A of tubular member 120A, wherein first rod end 102.1A of first rod section 102A is configured to enable travel along y axis Y within the boundary of tubular member 120A. Such linear motion between first rod end 102.1A of first rod section 102A and first tube aperture 122.1A of first tube end 122A enables y axis Y parallel adjustment, positioning, or spacing of rods, such as second rod section 106A and second rod section 116A.

Preferably slidable coupler section 130D is positioned between rod 101B and rod 111B, and include a hollow tube or conduit member, such as tubular member 120B. Tubular member 120B preferably includes first tube end 122B and second tube end 124B. Preferably first tube end 122B and second tube end 124B includes an open end and longitudinally extending interior passageway therein, such as first tube aperture 122.1B and second tube aperture 124.1B. For assembly, first rod end 112.1B of first rod section 112B is preferably inserted in second tube aperture 124.1B of second tube end 124B of tubular member 120B, wherein first rod end 112.1B may be affixed to second tube end 124B of tubular member 120B. It is contemplated herein that first rod end 112.1B may be affixed to second tube end 124B of tubular member 120B utilizing a weld, adhesive, compression fit or the like. It is further contemplated herein that first tube aperture 122.1B and tubular member 120B may be formed by mechanically widening or flaring first tube aperture 122.1B and tubular member 120B of hollow rod 111B. Moreover, first rod end 102.1B of first rod section 102B is preferably inserted in first tube aperture 122.1B of first tube end 122B of tubular member 120B, wherein first rod end 102.1B of first rod section 102B is configured to enable travel, adjust, extend, or retract along y axis Y within the boundary of tubular member 120B. Such linear motion between first rod end 102.1B of first rod section 102B and first tube aperture 122.1B of first tube end 122B enables y axis Y parallel adjustment, positioning, or spacing of rods, such as second rod section 106B and second rod section 116B.

It is contemplated herein that stringer 100 may include a single axis of adjustment or telescope, such as along the x axis X or y axis Y or alternatively a multi axis adjustment or telescope, such as along the x axis X or y axis Y.

It is further contemplated herein that slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100 may include inner rod that is slidably longitudinally received within a hollow outer rod and that each end of a rod may be interchanged from inner to outer.

It is still further contemplated herein that slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100 may be interchanged.

It is still further contemplated herein that slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100 may include one or more expand and contract sections or slidable sections to enable x axis X and/or y axis Y parallel adjustment or spacing of the rods that form stringer 100.

Referring now to FIG. 4.1 an exemplary surgical instrument I, such as a hemostat having moveable shank S1 and shank S2, which preferably includes a pair of opposing first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2, jaw members, wherein at least one of the jaw members is movable relative to the other. Such jaw members may be pivotable about pivot point P, within box lock B, between first open position O in which the jaw members are disposed in a spaced relation relative to one another, and second closed position C in which the jaw members are configured to grasp or clamp something therebetween, such as tissue, or the like. Moreover, opposing first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 may be locked or held in position by a lock such as ratchet lock L preferably positioned on an extension stem or support member such as shank S1 and shank S2 between the two ring handles R. In use, for example a user positions their thumb in first ring handle R1 and their index or middle finger within second ring handle R2. By a user opening and closing their thumb and index or middle finger this causes first ring handle R1 and second ring handle R2 to move apart (first open position O) and together (second closed position C), accordingly. The movements of first ring handle R1 and second ring handle R2 causes shank S1 and shank S2 to pivot about pivot point P which results in first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 to likewise pivot about pivot point P between first open position O and second closed position C.

Further, surgical instruments I may include hemostats, forceps, clamps, scalpels, scissors, picks, retractors, hooks, clips, pliers, punches, curettes, specula and the like, which are generally of high precision and intricate construction and come in a variety of types, shapes and sizes, all of which may be used during a particular surgical procedure. A variety of surgical tools exist for each category of instruments. For example, considering only forceps, they come straight, left curved, right curved, serrated, cupped, etc. In addition, a range of medical, dental and veterinary tools have been developed for each discipline, such as in medicine sub-categories of surgical procedures include anesthesia, cardio, dermatology, ear nose & throat, hand (specific limbs), facial, ob/gyn, orthopedic and the like each discipline having a variety of specialty and common surgical instruments. Over the years, surgical procedures along with the type and quantity of surgical instruments used in a given procedure have become predominantly standardized. Many of the above-mentioned instruments are scissor action instruments, having a pair of ring handles R that are connected through a pivot P to working moveable members shank S1 and shank S2. Preferably, lever, extension or support members such as shank S typically include ring handles R at the ends thereof to facilitate the opening and closing of shank S1 and shank S2 connected to first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2.

Referring now to FIG. 4.2 an exemplary embodiment of a plurality of surgical instruments I strung together by stringer 100. Preferably rod 101A and rod 101B of stringer 100 are positioned through first ring handle R1 and second ring handle R2 of one or more surgical instruments I to group surgical instruments I in sequential order along y axis Y. Moreover, one exemplary function of the extension and retraction capability of slidable coupler sections 130C and 130D is to enable stringer 100 to accommodate additional (expansion) or fewer (retraction) numbers of surgical instruments I. Such extension and retraction maintains a tight y axis Y fit around ring handles R of the group surgical instruments I and holds the group surgical instruments I in an erect position. Such erect position, space between instruments, and organization of the group surgical instruments I enables shortened time to identify, clean (whether pre-wash, pressure washing or the like), sort, count, group, and sterilize surgical instrument I. Moreover, such erect position, space between instruments, and organization of the group surgical instruments I reduces instrument damage when transporting, stacking, sorting, inspecting, and counting, and additionally when positioning on a sorting table for a technician to inspect, count, and sort. Still further, such extension and retraction of slidable coupler sections 130C and 130D enables stringer 100 to adjust and accommodate a variety of sizes of surgical instruments I and numbers or groups of surgical instruments I.

Procedurally the surgical instruments I should be strung post-surgery when in their aligned position on the surgical instrument roll by feeding stringer 100 through first ring handle R1 and second ring handle R2. Thereafter the surgical instruments I are preferably handled as a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100 through the multi-step sorting, identifying, grouping, cleaning and sterilization process. Such bundling of surgical instruments I preferably helps to protect surgical instruments I from damage when transported, stacked one on the other as well as when the surgical instruments are emptied out on a sorting table (no longer required) for a technician to inspect, count, and sort. Such handling may scratch, bend and may even break the surgical instruments resulting in increased cost to replace such instruments, which are often delicate and expensive. Moreover, such damage to the surgical instruments reduces the life expectancy of the surgical instruments resulting in increased medical costs to replace the surgical instruments. Furthermore, if such damaged surgical instruments are accidentally returned to the operating room, such surgical procedures may be delayed or cancelled due to non-functioning surgical instruments causing lost revenue for the surgery center and an upset surgical team and patients in queue.

Moreover, one exemplary function of the extension and retraction capability of slidable coupler sections 130A and 130B is to enable stringer 100 to accommodate surgical instruments I in an open position O and upright. Such extension and retraction of slidable coupler sections 130A and 130B maintains x axis X spacing between first ring handle R1 and second ring handle R2 of the group surgical instruments I. Such movement of first ring handle R1 and second ring handle R2 causes shank S1 and shank S2 to pivot about pivot point P which results in first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 to likewise pivot about pivot point P. Preferably stringer 100 holds the group surgical instruments I in an erect position with opposing first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 held in open position O. Such open position O, spacing between instruments, and organization of the group surgical instruments I enables more thorough cleaning and sterilization of surgical instruments I. In addition, maintaining such open position O between first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 preferably reduces the time to sort, identify, inspect, group, clean and sterilize the group surgical instruments I. Moreover, such open position O of the plurality of surgical instruments I strung together by stringer 100 reduces the number of sharps being sent to central sterile and the reduction of accidents associated with needle/sharps injuries retained in a surgical instrument I or hidden in an unorganized cluster of surgical instruments I. Such erect position, spacing between instruments, and organization of the group surgical instruments I enables shortened time to identify, clean (whether pre-wash, pressure washing or the like), sort, count, group, and sterilize surgical instrument I. Still further, such extension and retraction of slidable coupler sections 130A and 130B enables stringer 100 to adjust and accommodate a variety of sizes of surgical instruments I and groups of surgical instruments I.

Referring now to FIG. 5.1 there is illustrated a perspective view of an example embodiment box like tray bottom and lid surgical instrument support tray system 10 with exemplary adjustable stringer 100 position or affixed thereon. Preferably, surgical instrument support tray system 10 includes a container or basket and lid, such as tray bottom 220 and tray top 320. Tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 are preferably formed of a suitable material, stainless steel, aluminum, metal, metal alloys, shape memory alloys, carbon fibers, ceramic, and includes chrome or other plated metals or coated metal and anodizing or the like, capable of providing structure to tray bottom 220 and tray top 320. Preferably, the material includes other suitable characteristics, such as durability, rigidity, stain-resistance, bacteria-resistant, light weight, chemical inertness, oxidation resistance, ease of workability, color coding, or other beneficial characteristic understood by one skilled in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 5.2.1 there is illustrated a perspective view of an example embodiment tray bottom 220. Preferably, tray bottom 220 may be configured as a basket-like housing or enclosure in which surgical instruments I may be positioned, sterilized, transported and stored for later use. Tray bottom 220 comprises four generally perpendicular, upwardly projecting, continuous planar member(s), surface(s) or side(s) such as such as side walls 222, 223, 224, 225 and bottom 226 arranged preferably as a rectangle or square and having an open top box. Side walls 222-225 preferably define a generally open top having an upper perimeter 227.

It is contemplated herein that one or more sides walls 222, 223, 224, 225 and bottom 226 may be formed from a wire grid construction.

It is further contemplated herein that tray bottom 220 may include a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate a variety of surgical instruments I.

Referring again to FIG. 5.2.1, preferably side walls 222, 223, 224, 225 and bottom 226 may be formed or configured with a plurality or set of holes such as apertures 240 to enable steam or other sterilant to flow through apertures 240 formed in side walls 222, 223, 224, 225 and bottom 226 and permeate the entire interior of tray bottom 220. Furthermore, such sterilant may pass up, under and over the surgical instruments I positioned in tray bottom 220, thus ensuring effective sterilization.

Preferably, tray bottom 220 includes two or more wire handles such as handle wire 230 configured generally in a u-shape. Handle wire 230 is preferably positioned approximate an interior side of one of side walls 222, 223, 224, or 225 (preferably 223 and 225) and removably affixed thereto and configured to enable swivel movement of handle wire 230 about a plate such as handle retainer plate 232. At least two handle retainer plates 232 are preferably affixed to side walls 223 and 225 by an attachment device such as machined screw 234 positioned through machined apertures 236 configured in side walls 223 and 225. Handle wires 230 are preferably affixed to side walls 223 and 225 to facilitate the lifting, carrying and positioning of tray bottom 220.

Furthermore, any of side walls 222, 223, 224, 225 and bottom 226 may include an identifying legend such as indicia 231 to enable identification of the surgical instruments I contained therein or the surgical procedure identified with the set or group of surgical instruments I contained within tray bottom 220, surgical kit identification, dates of sterilization, dates of expiration, model number, serial number, ownership and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 5.2.2 there is illustrated a perspective view of an example embodiment surface, lid or cover, such as tray top 320 of the surgical instrument support tray system 10. Preferably, tray top 320 may be configured as a box top, cover, closure or lid for tray bottom 220 in which surgical instruments I may be positioned, removably affixed thereto, sterilized, transported and stored for later use. Tray top 320 comprises four generally perpendicular, downwardly projecting, continuous, planar member(s), surface(s) or side(s) arranged preferably as a rectangle or square, such as side walls 322-325. Side walls 322-325 preferably define a top having perimeter 227 configured to engage, surround, or friction fit side walls 222-225 of tray bottom 220 to form an enclosure in which surgical instruments I may be positioned, removably affixed thereto, sterilized, transported and stored for later use. It is contemplated herein that tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 may include a latch mechanism to secure tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 to one another. Furthermore, any of side walls 322, 323, 324, 325 and/or top 326 may be configured as a support member for surgical instruments I, such as top 326.

Likewise, side walls 322, 323, 324, 325 and top 326 may be formed or configured with a plurality or set of holes such as apertures 340 to enable steam or other sterilant to flow through apertures 340 formed in side walls 322, 323, 324, 325 and top 326 and permeate the entire interior of tray top 320 and into the interior of tray bottom 220. Furthermore, such sterilant may pass down through tray top 320 and over the surgical instruments I positioned in tray bottom 220, thus ensuring effective sterilization.

It is contemplated herein that tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 may be configured in shapes other than square and rectangle provided such configuration enables sterilization, transport and storage for later use of surgical instruments I.

Referring again to FIG. 5.2.2, preferably top 326 of tray top 320 includes regularly spaced columns or rows of a plurality or set of furrows, trenches, channel or troughs, such as valleys 650 formed therein top 326. Valleys 650, such as first valley 651 and second valley 652, are formed as a pair of columns in top 326 of tray top 320, and are preferably configured as a furrows, trenches, channel or troughs shape positioned parallel to side walls 323 and 325, into which portions of surgical instrument I, preferably ring handles R may be held or positioned. Preferably, ring handles R may be positioned and/or held in a desired and evenly spaced position therein valleys 650 preventing surgical instrument I from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments I. Valleys 650 are preferably formed in sets of two to accommodate stringer 100 and a group of ring handles R of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100. Moreover, one or more pins, plugs, screws, rivets, bolts, clips or other fastener, such as stringer attachment device 700 may be utilized to affix stringer 100 and/or a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100 to tray top 320. It is contemplated herein that stringer attachment device 700, more specifically first attachment device 702 and second attachment device 704, may affix stringer 100 or a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100 to one or more apertures 340 in side walls 322, 323, 324, 325 and/or top 326, especially apertures 340 adjacent perimeter 227.

Referring now to FIG. 5.3.1 there is illustrated a top view of an example embodiment lid or cover, such as tray top 320 of the surgical instrument support tray system 10. Preferably top 326 of tray top 320 includes regularly spaced S columns or rows of a plurality of valleys 650, such as first valley 651, second valley 652, third valley 653 and the like, formed therein top 320. Valleys 650 are preferably spaced S distance apart to accommodate, cup and support ring handles R of surgical instrument I therein. In addition, valleys 650 are preferably spaced S distance apart to maintain surgical instrument I in open position O, shown in FIG. 4. Preferably top 326, includes valleys 650, as a pair, such as first valley 651 and second valley 652, are formed as a pair of columns, and are preferably configured as a furrows, trenches, channel or troughs shape positioned parallel to side walls 323 and 325, into which portions of surgical instrument I, such as ring handles R may be positioned or held. Preferably, ring handles R may be positioned and/or held in a desired and evenly spaced position therein valleys 650 in top 326 preventing surgical instrument I from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments I.

Referring now to FIG. 5.3.3 there is illustrated a cross sectional side view along AA of tray top, such as tray top 320 of the surgical instrument support tray system 10. Preferably top 326 shown from side wall 324, includes valleys 650, as a plurality of pairs, such as first valley 651 and second valley 652 (first pair) and third valley 653 and fourth valley 654 (second pair), each formed as a pair into which portions of surgical instrument I, preferably one or more sets of ring handles R may be positioned or held preventing surgical instrument I from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments I.

Referring now to FIG. 5.3.2 there is illustrated a side cross sectional view of tray top 320 along line A-A showing cross sectional of surface 326 of the surgical instrument support tray system 10. Preferably, valleys 650, such as second valley 652, third valley 653 and the like, formed therein top 320. Preferably, valleys 650, such as second valley 652 includes a curved, arced or bent surface, such as second contoured surface 662 and end edge 664, and third valley 653 includes third contoured surface 663 and end edge 664. Moreover, therebetween and on each side of valleys 650, such as second valley 652 and third valley 653 there is shown cross sectional of surface 326. Preferably contoured surfaces, such as second contoured surface 662 and third contoured surface 663 are formed in top 320 and spaced S distance apart to position or hold ring handles R in a desired and evenly spaced position when positioned therein valleys 650 to prevent surgical instrument I from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments I. It is contemplated herein that second contoured surface 662 and third contoured surface 663 may be configured or formed as polygon, curved or the like to conform to, position, or hold ring handles R of surgical instrument I.

Manufacture

Preferably, tray bottom 220, tray top 320 and contoured surface 662 and contoured surface 663 of valleys 650 are formed as follows: a turret machine is preferably utilized to punch all apertures 240 and 340 in a stock sheet of aluminum or stainless steel and to cut outside perimeter shape, such as perimeter 227. Next, “brake press” (a large hydraulic press machine) is preferably used to press one or more valleys 650 into surface 326 of tray top 320. Next, the brake press is preferably utilized to form side walls 322, 323, 324, 325 of tray top 320. It is contemplated herein that large volumes of production of tray top 320 may be formed using automated processes known to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, preferably utilizing a larger “die” shaped to press all apertures 240 and 340 in a stock sheet of aluminum or stainless steel and to cut outside perimeter shape, such as perimeter 227 in one hit/press. Next, a similar press is preferably utilized to press one or more valleys 650 into surface 326 of tray top 320 and to form side walls 322, 323, 324, 325 of tray top 320 in one hit/press.

It is contemplated herein that tray bottom 220 may be configured or formed with one or more valleys 650, similar to tray top 320, formed in bottom 226 of tray bottom 220, to accommodate ring handles R may, which may be positioned and held in a desired and evenly spaced position preventing surgical instrument I from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments I. Referring again to FIG. 5.3.2 there is illustrated a side cross sectional view of tray bottom 220 showing cross sectional surface 326 of the surgical instrument support tray system 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 5.4.1 and 5.4.2 there is illustrated a top and cross sectional view of an example embodiment tray bottom 220. Preferably tray bottom 220 includes one or more fastener, hanger, peg, or arm, such as thumb screw 252 and 254, more specifically thumb screws 252A, 252B, 252C, and 252D for insertion in apertures 242A, 242B, 242C, and 242D (shown in FIG. 5.2) of side walls 222 and thumb screws 254A, 254B, 254C, and 254D for insertion in apertures 244A, 244B, 244C, and 244D (shown in FIG. 5.2) of side walls 224. Thumb screw 252 and 254 are preferably inserted in apertures 242A, 242B, 242C, and 242D (shown in FIG. 5.2) in side walls 222 and in apertures 244A, 244B, 244C, and 244D (shown in FIG. 5.2) in side walls 224, respectively, and utilized to support an inner tray, such as surgical instrument support tray system 10.1. It is contemplated herein that surgical instrument support tray system 10.1 may be color coordinated and/or grouped within surgical instrument support tray system 10 for easy identification of assemblies for specific surgical specialties. Preferably, surgical instrument support tray system 10.1 may be configured or utilized to support specialty, random, non-ring handled surgical instruments or other surgical instruments. It is contemplated that side walls 222 and 224 may include one or more parallel first set of thumb screws 252A, 252B, 252C, and 252D and one or more parallel second set of thumb screws 254A, 254B, 254C, and 254D or the like to provide support and accommodate a variety of configured inner tray(s), such as surgical instrument support tray system 10.1.

Referring now to FIG. 6.1 there is illustrated a perspective view of an example embodiment of a surgical instrument support tray system 10 with exemplary adjustable stringers 100 shown adjusted in two positions affixed to tray top 320 of the surgical instrument support tray system 10. Preferably, surgical instrument support tray system 10 includes tray bottom 220 and tray top 320, and tray top 320 includes a plurality of regularly spaced valleys 650 formed therein top 326, such as first valley 651, second valley 652, third valley 653, fourth valley 654, fifth valley 655, sixth valley 656, seventh valley 657, and eighth valley 658. Preferably, stringer 100A is adjusted, positioned, or expand and contract along slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100A to enable x axis X and/or y axis Y parallel adjustment or spacing of the rods that form stringer 100A to be positioned approximate first valley 651 and third valley 653 of tray top 320. Alternatively, stringer 100B is adjusted, positioned, or expand and contract along slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100B to enable x axis X and/or y axis Y parallel adjustment or spacing of the rods that form stringer 100B to be positioned approximate fifth valley 655 and sixth valley 656 of tray top 320. It is contemplated herein that slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100A/B may be adjusted or expand and contract along slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100A/B to enable x axis X and/or y axis Y parallel adjustment, positioning, or spacing of the rods that form stringer 100A/B to be positioned approximate a pair or a plurality of valleys 650 of tray top 320.

It is contemplated herein that stringer 100A/B may be color coordinated and/or grouped within inner tray, such as surgical instrument support tray system 10.1 and/or surgical instrument support tray system 10 for easy identification of assemblies for specific surgical specialties.

Referring now to FIG. 6.2 there is illustrated a perspective view of an example embodiment of a surgical instrument support tray system 10 with a plurality of surgical instrument sets I held in a vertical position by exemplary adjustable stringers 100A/B affixed or positioned approximate to tray top 320 of surgical instrument support tray system 10. Preferably, surgical instrument support tray system 10 includes tray bottom 220 and tray top 320, and tray top 320 includes a plurality of regularly spaced valleys 650 formed therein top 326. For example, stringer 100A positions and holds ring handle R1 in valley 651 and positions and holds ring handle R2 in valley 653 of tray top 320 for surgical instruments IA. Such positioning of surgical instruments IA preferably maintains opposing first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 in open position O for cleaning and sterilization purposes. Furthermore, such positioning of surgical instruments IA preferably maintains the instruments in a desired and evenly spaced position preventing them from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments IA.

As an alternative example, stringer 100B positions and holds ring handle R1 in valley 655 and positions and holds ring handle R2 in valley 656 of tray top 320 for surgical instruments IB. Such positioning of surgical instruments IB preferably maintains opposing first jaw member J1 and second jaw members J2 of surgical instruments IB in open position O for cleaning and sterilization purposes. Furthermore, such positioning of surgical instruments IB preferably maintains the instruments in a desired and evenly spaced position preventing them from coming into contact with one another, intermingling, and enabling easy identification, cleaning, sorting, counting, and grouping of surgical instruments IB.

Moreover, one or more stringer attachment device 700 may be utilized to affix stringer 100A/B and/or a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100A/B to tray top 320. It is contemplated herein that stringer attachment devices 700, more specifically first stringer attachment devices 700A and second stringer attachment devices 700B, may affix stringer 100A/100B or a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100A/B to one or more apertures 340 in top 326, especially apertures 340 adjacent perimeter 227.

Referring now to FIG. 7.1 there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of the attachment device of FIG. 5.2.2. Preferably, stringer attachment device 700 includes pan head bolt 780, coil spring 760, cylindrical spacer 740, clip 720 and threaded end cap 710. One or more stringer attachment devices 700 may be utilized to affix a portion of stringer 100 and/or a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100 to tray top 320.

It is contemplated herein that stringer attachment device 700 includes other configurations of attachment devices known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 7.2 there is illustrated a perspective view of an exemplary alternate stringer attachment device 801. Referring now to FIG. 7.2.2 there is illustrated a perspective view of an alternate stringer attachment device 801 that preferably includes releasably friction clip, snap-in clasp, or channel, such as trough 802 having first trough wall 804 and second trough wall 806, base 807, and pin, dowel, threaded bolts, screws, pine tree plugs or the like, such as pegs 808. Referring now to FIG. 7.2.3 there is illustrated a side view of an alternate stringer attachment device 801 having pegs 808, base 807, and first trough wall 804. Referring now to FIG. 7.2.1 there is illustrated a perspective view of one or more exemplary alternate stringer attachment device 801 in combination with stringer attachment device 700 in use. Preferably, alternate stringer attachment device 801 is positioned on top 326 of tray top 320 and aligned with apertures 340 in top 326, especially apertures 340 adjacent perimeter 227. Moreover, pegs 808 are preferably pushed through apertures 340 adjacent perimeter 227 and friction fit therein to top 326 or secured thereto top 326 by nuts or other attachment mechanism know to one of ordinary skill. One or more alternate stringer attachment device 801 may be utilized to affix or frictionally secure a portion of stringer 100 and/or a group of surgical instruments I bound together by stringer 100 to tray top 320.

Procedure

Referring again to FIG. 7.2.1 there is illustrated either stringer attachment device 700 or alternate stringer attachment devices 801 affixed to tray top 320, which may be additionally utilized to position and frictionally affix one end, side, rod or section of stringer 100, such as slidable coupler section 130A, of stringer 100 to tray top 320 while the other end, of stringer 100 is swung or hinged up or vertically positioned with rods 102A and 102B perpendicular or adjacent to top 326 of tray top 320. Moreover, slidable coupler sections 130C and 130D may be temporarily removed to enable stringing of ring handles R of surgical instrument I onto rods 102A and 102B. Once ring handles R of surgical instrument I have preferably been strung onto rods 102A and 102B slidable coupler sections 130C and 130D may be reattached to stringer 100 to group together surgical instruments I and stringer 100. Preferably, stringer 100 is adjusted or expand and contract along slidable coupler sections 130A/B/C/D of stringer 100 to position stringer 100 approximate valleys 650 and thereafter the other end, such as slidable coupler sections 130B of stringer 100 is re-affixed to either stringer attachment device 700 or alternate stringer attachment devices 801, as shown in FIG. 6.

Referring to FIG. 8 there is illustrated a flow diagram 800 of a method of organizing, sorting, identifying, grouping, counting, cleaning, pressure washing, sterilizing, and storing prior to surgical use with decreased damage to surgical instruments, and decreased assembly time for sterile surgical instrument sets utilizing stringer 100 and surgical instrument support tray system 10, shown in FIGS. 1-7.

In block or step 810 and as described above in FIGS. 1-7, upon completion of surgery the operating personnel break down the surgical case and the surgical instruments I are sorted and stringer 100 rods, such as rods 102A and 102B may be inserted in ring handles R of surgical instruments I to group the set of surgical instruments I by stringing a row of ring handles R of surgical instruments I or by the procedure above for stringer attachment device 700 or attachment devices 800. The grouped set of surgical instruments I may be positioned in valleys 650 by adjusting stringer 100 wherein the surgical instruments I may be identified, counted, sorted and positioned in an organized, parallel relationship in valleys 650 to form a set or group of surgical instruments I. While surgical instruments I have been retained in parallel, even spaced with open jaw by surgical instrument support tray system 10 an assembler may quickly inspect, identify, sort, count, disengage any of the surgical instruments I for further inspection and operational testing, and grouping of surgical instruments I (inspecting). Thus, surgical instrument support tray system 10 reduces the time spent cleaning, sorting, counting, identifying and grouping surgical instruments I, extends the life expectancy of the surgical instruments, and enables thorough cleaning of the surgical instruments.

In block or step 820, surgical instruments I may be gathered together on one end of stringer 100, stringer 100 may be contracted, and laid as a group of surgical instruments I on bottom 226 of tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 may be positioned on tray bottom 220 wherein the basket-like housing or enclosure maintains surgical instruments I in an organized and secure position for sterilization, transportation and storage for later use.

In block or step 830, the grouped set of surgical instruments I may be removed from tray bottom 220 and the grouped set of surgical instruments I may be positioned in valleys 650 on tray top 320 by adjusting stringer 100 wherein the surgical instruments I may be retained in parallel, evenly spaced and an open jaw position by surgical instrument support tray system 10. In such position, the grouped set of surgical instruments I may be sprayed and evenly coated with an enzymatic to begin breaking down post-surgery contaminants (pre-washing).

In block or step 840, the grouped surgical instruments I and stringer 100 may be pre-washed by submerging into a detergent pre-wash solution or sonification system. In addition, grouped surgical instruments I may be positioned in valleys 650 on tray top 320 by adjusting stringer 100 wherein the surgical instruments I may be scrubbed or pressure washed to remove any visible contaminants remaining post-surgery and inspected for completeness (pre-washing).

In block or step 850, surgical instruments I may be gathered together on one end of stringer 100, stringer 100 may be contracted with retained parallel spaced and open jaw surgical instruments I, and/or laid as a group of surgical instruments I on bottom 226 of tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 may be positioned on tray bottom 220 wherein the grouped surgical instruments I or basket-like housing or enclosure with surgical instruments I in an organized and secure position and open jaw surgical may be washed in a commercial washer/disinfector. Since surgical instruments I are retained in parallel, evenly spaced and in an open jaw position this enables even access of detergents and uniform cleaning of surgical instruments I by a commercial washer/disinfector.

In block or step 860, the grouped set of surgical instruments I may be removed from tray bottom 220 and the grouped set of surgical instruments I may be positioned in valleys 650 on tray top 320 by adjusting stringer 100 wherein the surgical instruments I may be retained in parallel, evenly spaced and an open jaw position by surgical instrument support tray system 10. While retained an assembler inspects, identifies, sorts and counts surgical instruments I. Since surgical instruments I have been previously retained in parallel, even spaced with open jaw on surgical instrument support tray system 10 an assembler may quickly inspect, identify, sort, count, disengage any of the surgical instruments I for further inspection and operational testing, and finally grouping of surgical instruments I. Moreover, if one or more surgical instruments I is to be removed or added to the bundled or retained set of surgical instruments I the procedure outlined above for stringer attachment device 700 or alternate stringer attachment devices 800 may be utilized to add or remove surgical instruments I. Thus, surgical instrument support tray system 10 and stringer 100 reduces the time spent cleaning, sorting, counting, identifying and grouping surgical instruments I, extends the life expectancy of the surgical instruments, and enables thorough cleaning and decontamination of the surgical instruments.

In addition, surgical instrument support tray system 10 preferably reduces the number of sharps being bundled or hidden with the surgical instruments I and being sent to sterile central.

In block or step 870, surgical instruments I may be gathered together on one end of stringer 100, stringer 100 may be contracted with retained parallel spaced and open jaw surgical instruments I, and laid as a group of surgical instruments I on bottom 226 of tray bottom 220 and tray top 320 and may be positioned on tray bottom 220 wherein the grouped surgical instruments I or basket-like housing or enclosure with surgical instruments I in an organized and secure position and open jaw surgical may be wrapped, containerized (placed in a sterilization container, such as a basket with detachable lid) or stacked for sterile processing/distribution. Surgical instrument support tray(s) system 10 with stringer 100 retained parallel spaced and open jaw surgical instruments I may be sterilized in a commercial sterilizer using steam or other sterilant. The sterilant may access surgical instruments I via a plurality or set of holes such as apertures 240/340/440 in surgical instrument support tray system 10 to enable thorough cleaning and sterilization of surgical instruments. Once sterilized, surgical instrument support tray(s) system 10 with stringer 100 retained parallel spaced and open jaw surgical instruments I may be placed in inventory for future surgical use.

The foregoing description and drawings comprise illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Having thus described exemplary embodiments, it should be noted by those ordinarily skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one ordinarily skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Moreover, the present invention having been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein, but is limited only by the following claims. 

Therefore, at least the following is claimed:
 1. A surgical instrument support tray system configured to support a plurality of ring handled surgical instruments, said surgical instrument support tray system comprising: a tray bottom; a removeable tray top configured to fit said tray bottom, said removeable tray top having a surface configured to support the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments, said surface further comprises two or more valleys formed in parallel in said surface, each valley of said two or more valleys is configured to receive one ring handle of the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments; and a stringer having at least two rod sections, each rod section of said at least two rod sections configured to be inserted in one ring handle of the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments; wherein, each of said at least two rod sections being positioned inline with and above one of said two or more valleys.
 2. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 1, wherein said stringer and the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments are positioned above two of said two or more valleys.
 3. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 2, wherein said two or more valleys forms at least one pair of valleys configured to receive a pair of the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments.
 4. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pair of valleys are spaced apart, said at least one pair of valleys configured to releasably retain the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments in an open position.
 5. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 4, wherein said at least one pair of valleys and said stringer are configured to maintain the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments in an organized relationship.
 6. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 1, wherein said removeable tray top is configured to have one or more perpendicular side walls extending therefrom to form a lid.
 7. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 6, wherein said lid formed by the removable tray top is configured as a top for a container of the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments formed by the tray bottom.
 8. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 7, wherein said lid and said container further defines a plurality of holes configured to enable sterilant to flow therethrough.
 9. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 8, further comprises a stringer attachment device utilized to releasably attach said stringer to one or more holes of said plurality of holes.
 10. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 9, wherein said stringer attachment device further comprises a clip to releasably receive a rod section of said at least two rod sections.
 11. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 9, wherein said stringer attachment device further comprises a clasp having a trough to releasably receive a rod section of said at least two rod sections and one or more pegs configured to releasably affix said stringer attachment device to said plurality of holes.
 12. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 11, wherein said stringer attachment device is configured to enable a vertical positioning of said at least two rod sections to string the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments thereon.
 13. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 4, wherein said at least one pair of valleys further comprises a contoured surface configured to receive the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments.
 14. The surgical instrument support tray system of claim 7, wherein said container is configured to have one or more perpendicular side walls extending therefrom to form a basket.
 15. A surgical instrument support tray system configured to support a plurality of ring handled surgical instruments, said surgical instrument support tray system comprising: a tray bottom; a removeable tray top configured to fit said tray bottom, said removeable tray top having a surface configured to support the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments, said surface further comprises two or more valleys formed in parallel in said surface and configured to receive the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments; a stringer having at least two rod sections, each rod section of said at least two rod sections configured to be inserted in one ring handle of the plurality of ring handled surgical instruments; and wherein, each of said at least two rod sections being positioned above one of said two or more valleys; and a stringer attachment device utilized to releasably attach said stringer to one or more holes in said tray bottom and/or said removable tray top, said stringer attachment device comprises a clip to releasably receive a rod section of said at least two rod sections. 